Can Medication Cure My Arrhythmia After Ablation? Expert Insights

After electrocautery, if arrhythmia persists, can medication cure it?

I have arrhythmia, and during my first examination last year, my heart rate was 60,000 beats per day (without medication).
After starting medication, it decreased to 10,000 beats (with medications including Dronedarone 150 mg, Sotalol 0.25 mg, and Amiodarone 1.25 mg).
In the second examination, my heart rate was 20,000 beats, and in the fourth examination, after reducing the medication dosage, it was 40,000 beats (with Sotalol 1.25 mg).
Later, I underwent catheter ablation, and my heart rate is currently 35,000 beats.
The doctor advised me to continue taking medication for three months and then come back for another check-up.
Currently, I am taking Rhythmol 100 mg and Amiodarone 1.25 mg.

I would like to ask the doctor:
1.
Can arrhythmia be cured with medication? Is it possible that I won't need to take medication in the future and that it won't recur? Have there been cases where this has happened? (If not, please tell me directly, I can handle it.) It doesn't have to return to normal; I just want the frequency to decrease so that it won't spike to tens of thousands of beats again.

2.
I want to know if taking this medication puts a significant burden on my body.
Will I need dialysis in the future or risk liver damage?
3.
What can I do in my daily life to improve my arrhythmia? Please help me with these questions! I'm really worried! If my situation is really bad, please tell me directly! Please keep it simple! Thank you, doctor! Thank you!

Aga, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/20

Dr. Chen Jili reply Cardiology

It is recommended that you discuss the above issues with your attending physician, as they can provide appropriate treatment based on your specific condition.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/06/20

More Info

Arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, is a condition that can significantly impact one's quality of life. After undergoing an ablation procedure, many patients wonder about the role of medication in managing their arrhythmia and whether they can eventually stop taking these medications.
1. Can Medication Cure My Arrhythmia?
Medications can help control arrhythmia, but they do not necessarily cure it. The goal of antiarrhythmic medications, such as those you mentioned (e.g., Propafenone, Dronedarone, and others), is to manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of episodes. In some cases, patients may experience a significant reduction in arrhythmia episodes, and some may even achieve a state where they no longer need medication. However, this varies widely among individuals.
There are documented cases where patients have had successful outcomes post-ablation, leading to a significant decrease in arrhythmia episodes or even complete resolution of symptoms. However, it is essential to understand that while ablation can be effective, it does not guarantee that arrhythmia will not recur. Continuous monitoring and follow-up with your healthcare provider are crucial to assess your condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

2. Medication Burden on the Body:
Regarding your concern about the burden of medication on your body, it is valid to be cautious about long-term medication use. Most antiarrhythmic medications can have side effects, and some may affect liver or kidney function over time. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is essential, especially if you are on these medications for an extended period.
Your healthcare provider should conduct routine blood tests to monitor your organ function and adjust medications as needed. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects, it is crucial to report these to your doctor immediately. They can help determine whether the benefits of the medication outweigh the risks in your specific case.

3. Lifestyle Changes to Improve Arrhythmia:
In addition to medication, there are several lifestyle changes you can adopt to help manage your arrhythmia. These include:
- Diet: A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help improve overall cardiovascular health. Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake may also help minimize arrhythmia episodes.

- Exercise: Regular physical activity can strengthen your heart and improve circulation. However, consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have a history of arrhythmia.

- Stress Management: Stress can trigger arrhythmia episodes. Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress levels.

- Avoiding Stimulants: Certain medications, supplements, and recreational drugs can exacerbate arrhythmia. Always discuss any new medications or supplements with your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while medications can effectively manage arrhythmia, they may not provide a permanent cure. Continuous communication with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor your condition and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Additionally, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly contribute to managing your arrhythmia and improving your overall well-being. If you have concerns about your treatment plan or the potential side effects of your medications, do not hesitate to discuss these with your doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current condition.

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